TECHNICAL BULLETIN: 09-16-2003
Instructions for Upgrading to V3.3 Sun Sensors
Sun Sensor Identification:
This Upgrade is only applicable to Version III controllers. These controllers use remote
sensor assemblies with the control electronics located in a separate chassis mounted on
the azimuth gear drive assembly.
Tools Required:
#2 Philip Head Screwdriver
Small Flat Head Screwdriver
Needle Nose Pliers
7/16” Wrench
Your mount will be in one of these
array (top edge) configurations Array Technologies, Inc.
3312 Stanford NE
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone:
FAX:
URL:
505-881-7567
505-881-7572
www.wattsun.com
Step by Step Sun Sensor Upgrade Instructions
1) Open main control box by loosening the four cover screws:
2) Remove the fuse from the controller.
3) Using a small flat blade screwdriver, depress the buttons above the sensor wires to
remove the 5 sensor wires as shown in the picture. Loosen the Heyco nut and
remove the sensor cable from the control box.
Array Technologies, Inc.
3312 Stanford NE
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone:
FAX:
URL:
505-881-7567
505-881-7572
www.wattsun.com
4) On Dual-Axis models only: Switch the polarity of the red and black elevation motor
output wires.
5) Remove the old sensor from the NE corner of the array.
6) Mount the sensor in the center of the North (top) edge of array. The new sensor
mounts on top of the endcap channel or on the module if there is no endcap.
Center it with the blue box facing skyward. Note that the new sensors do not have
the “pyramid-style” shade pole.
7) Route the new sensor cable to the tracker control box using cable ties and making
sure that the cable service loop is long enough for tracker movement. Make sure it
is routed such that the cable cannot get caught in a pivot joint.
8) Insert sensor cable into the center Heyco cable fitting and with a small flat blade
screwdriver depress the square button above the connector hole and insert the
sensor wires into the connector.
Follow the same color code as the old sensor wires. Tug on each wire to make sure
they are secure. Also be sure the wire insulation is not pushed too far into the
connector.
9) Set the DIP switches according to the positions shown in the diagram. For elevation
stow flat at night, DIP switch three must be down. This allows both axis’ to run
Array Technologies, Inc.
3312 Stanford NE
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone:
FAX:
URL:
505-881-7567
505-881-7572
www.wattsun.com
simultaneously and stows the elevation in a flat position at sunset. The sensitivity
adjustment pots should be in the 12 o’clock or middle position.
10) Replace fuse (You’ll see a small spark, don’t get scared, it’s normal).
11) Replace the cover and secure the four cover screws.
With this upgrade, you should see better tracking behavior and less hunting in cloudy conditions.
The new sensors have the ability to look through the clouds to find the infrared light coming from
the sun. The V3.3 sun sensor incorporates silicon sensors potted in a powder coated aluminum
chassis for long life and corrosion resistance.
DIP SWITCH SETTINGS (Note that Switch 4 has a new function compared to pre -2003 controllers.)
Dip
#1
#2
Default
Down
Up
#3
Up
#4
Down
#5
#6
#7
#8
Down
Down
Down
Down
Up Position
Freeze Tracker - Temporary off only
Normal: Energy Integration ON
Normal: Prioritize Azimuth Axis.
st
nd
Move Azimuth 1 , Elevation 2 .
Freeze Elevation at night.
Disable Elevation Actuator Auto Track
(Winter mode: Maintain a steep tilt to shed snow)
Manually move East.
Manually move West.
Manually move North.
Manually move South.
Array Technologies, Inc.
3312 Stanford NE
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Down Position
Normal: Auto Track
Energy Integration OFF: Lowers the
voltage input threshold to power from a low
state of charge 24 VDC battery.
Move Azimuth and Elevation at the same
time and lay the tracker flat at night.
(5 Degree tilt).
Normal: Dual-Axis Tracking ON
Normal: Auto Track.
Normal: Auto Track.
Normal: Auto Track.
Normal: Auto Track.
Phone:
FAX:
URL:
505-881-7567
505-881-7572
www.wattsun.com
DIP SWITCH
Small rocker switches that affect controller operation. Switches 5,6,7 & 8 move the tracker: allow for a 3
second delay for the motors to engage after “throwing” a switch from Auto Tracking. Return to the Normal
position for Auto Tracking!
LIGHT SENSITIVITY TRIM POTS
Inside the controller chassis are two adjustment potentiometers for light sensitivity. They are a single-turn
pot: clock-wise rotation equals greater sensitivity, counter clock-wise rotation equals lower sensitivity. This
adjustment is factory pre-set and should only be adjusted by qualified personnel. Do not turn more than ½
turn in either direction!
INTERIOR FUSE
Replaceable 5-Amp automotive spade type fuse (ATO). Do not replace with a larger amp rated fuse! Gently
pull the fuse out of the holder to inspect or replace. It is usual to see a small spark when reconnecting the
fuse. A 7.5-Amp fuse is the maximum fuse allowed. A 10-Amp fuse or higher will cause trouble!
NOTE FOR SINGLE AXIS CONTROLLER
♦ There is only one adjustment potentiometer for Azimuth Tracking.
♦ Dip switches #3, #4, #7 & #8 are not functional. Leave at factory default.
♦ Sensor has only one set of "eyes."
Array Technologies, Inc.
3312 Stanford NE
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone:
FAX:
URL:
505-881-7567
505-881-7572
www.wattsun.com